- 14 Mar 2002
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Yamagata No. 142 Yukimanten
In recent years, the quality of rice produced in the prefecture has suffered due to rising temperatures: during the extreme heatwave two years ago, the proportion of rice achieving the highest first-grade rating fell below 50% for the first time on record, prompting an urgent need for new measures to counter the effects of climate change on agriculture.
In response to these challenges, the prefecture developed a new variety, provisionally known as 'Yamagata 142' (山形１４２号), which was officially designated as a "certified variety" at the end of January 2025.
Yamagata governor Yoshimura Mieko
'Yamagata 142' was bred by crossing 'Yukiwakamaru' (雪若丸), a heat-resilient rice variety, with another variety recognised for its superior flavour. Compared to the established local brand 'Haenuki' (はえぬき), Yukimanten is expected to secure approximately 10% higher yields. Regarding quality, the new variety is reported to surpass 'Haenuki', producing larger, whiter grains. The texture is described as pleasantly firm without being overly hard, offering an easy-to-eat consistency, while the flavour is considered superior. In February, the prefecture solicited name suggestions for the new rice variety from the public, receiving over 3,000 entries from elementary and junior high school students across the region. Following a selection process, the name "Yukimanten," proposed by a fifth-grade student, was chosen.
県開発 暑さに強いコメの新品種 名称「ゆきまんてん」に決定｜NHK 山形県のニュース
【NHK】県が開発した、暑さに強く、収穫量が確保できる新しいコメの品種の名称は「ゆきまんてん」に決まりました。 県産米をめぐってはおととしの猛暑の…
